THC Drinks: What Are They & How Do They Compare to Edibles

THC Beverage

Also: Cannabis Beverage, THC Drink

THC drinks are beverages infused with compounds from cannabis, including cannabinoids like THC and CBD. While naturally hydrophobic, meaning they repel water and don’t mix well, THC beverages use nanoemulsion technology to effectively infuse THC and CBD into liquids.

THC drinks are beverages infused with compounds from cannabis. THC and CBD are naturally hydrophobic, meaning they repel water and don’t mix well. However, thanks to advancements in nanoemulsion technology, THC and CBD can now be effectively infused into liquids.¹

THC drinks may be relatively new, but that hasn’t stopped them from being formulated into the classic beverages we all know and love. Today, you can find THC in:

• Seltzers and sodas: A bubbly, refreshing way to drink your cannabis, THC-infused seltzers and sodas come in various flavors, from fruit essences to cola-inspired. 
  
  

• Tea: Unlike traditional canna-tea made from steeped marijuana flower, these teas are infused with THC for a more controlled and precise dose. You can find a wide variety of flavors, from herbal to black tea.
  
  

• Coffee: If we can’t talk to you until you’ve had your morning coffee, then THC-infused coffee is a perfect way to get both the boost of your cup of joe along with an added twist.
  
  

• Mocktails: Cannabis-infused mocktails offer an alternative to alcoholic drinks. These zero-proof versions of your favorite cocktails are enhanced with THC for a unique, elevated experience. 
  
  

• Powdered drink mixes: The perfect solution for on-the-go cannabis consumers, THC powder in drink mix packets allows you to infuse a measured dose of THC into any liquid, anywhere you are.
  
  

Most marijuana drinks include CBD and THC in different ratios. While THC will give you the psychoactive effects you expect from cannabis products, the CBD is a less-intoxicating ingredient that helps create a more balanced experience than you might get from a product with only THC. There are also some beverages on the market that are strictly CBD-focused, but for the purposes of this guide, we’ll focus on those that contain both.

To make THC drinks, most manufacturers use a process called nanoemulsion. Nanoemulsion breaks the cannabis oil down into nanoparticles that are then blended with a liquid, be it juice, coffee, seltzer, or water. This process ensures a better blend, so consumers can trust they’re getting a more even dose of THC with every sip.² 

From there, THC seltzers and other drinks work much like any other edible. As you sip your drink, THC and CBD enter your body and start to affect the Endocannabinoid System. This can lead to a feeling of intoxication commonly experienced with cannabis products. Typically, it takes only about 15-20 minutes to start feeling the effects of a cannabis beverage.³
 

Whether THC drinks or edibles are better for you depends on your personal preferences. If you want a quick onset of effects and a shorter high, then THC drinks are for you. If you don’t mind waiting, and would prefer a longer experience, then marijuana edibles are a better choice. Neither is better than the other, although THC drinks can be a good option for people with dietary restrictions or food allergies.
 

• Beverages: Quiker onset, shorter duration

• Edibles: Longer onset, longer duration

The body is able to absorb and process THC drinks faster because these types of products don’t have to go through the digestive system like traditional edibles do. You may begin to feel the effects of a THC drink within 10-15 minutes, and those effects typically last 1-3 hours. Edibles take time to pass through the digestive system and metabolize in the liver, anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Once the effects kick in, they tend to last much longer—typically 4-8 hours.

• Beverages: No cannabis taste

• Edibles: Might have cannabis taste

Because THC drinks are often made with flavorless, odorless cannabis extracts, they won’t have any of the associated herbal tastes or aromas. For some cannabis users, this is preferred. Edibles might have the familiar cannabis taste, depending on how they’re made.

• Beverages: Limited selection

• Edibles: Very wide selection

Edibles have been around longer than THC drinks, so there’s a wider variety of products available on the market–from swallowed edibles to sublingual and buccal options. THC beverages are generally available in aluminum cans, making them easier to blend into social settings.

Many cannabis enthusiasts are turning to cannabis mocktails and THC drinks for their fun flavors, unique effects, and social friendliness. In addition, many cannabis drinks are low in calories, making them a strong competitor to certain popular hard seltzer beverage brands. In this case, THC drinks can be a great way to check the box. There’s no question that the versatility of cannabis seltzers contribute to their popularity, and we expect to see that trend continue as more companies adopt ways to make marijuana beverages.

Our expert budtenders get plenty of questions about cannabis beverages. Here are just a few of the most common:

How much CBD and THC are in cannabis seltzers?

Some brands have dosages that vary between 2 mg of THC (with 4 mg of CBD) and 5 mg of THC (with no CBD), and other companies offer dosages that can go up to 100 mg of THC per beverage. You should always know your tolerance levels and consume accordingly, and of course, when in doubt, opt for a lower dose (even if it means just a few sips of a beverage). 

Do cannabis drinks contain alcohol?

No, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau does not allow cannabis-infused beverages to contain alcohol.⁴ 

How can you purchase a THC-infused drink?

Cannabis beverages are only available for purchase at state-licensed dispensaries in states that have approved the sale of cannabis. There are some states that do not allow cannabis beverage sales in state-approved dispensaries, so you’ll need to check local menus to see what’s available in your state.

Which lasts longer: THC drinks or edibles?

Edibles last longer because they are processed differently by the body, being broken down in the digestive system and then metabolized in the liver. The effects of a THC drink can begin at first sip, but they may only last about 1-3 hours.

Can you build tolerance to THC drinks?

Yes, depending on how frequently you consume THC drinks, you may build a tolerance to their effects. This is true of any cannabis product you have regularly.

Are THC drinks more expensive than edibles?

Yes, THC drinks tend to be more expensive than edibles because of the demand for them in the cannabis marketplace. But as more THC drink options hit dispensary shelves, that price could fall.

Purchasing Cannabis Drinks

If you enjoy different types of edibles and you’re looking for a unique drink to enjoy socially, THC beverages could be the perfect solution for you. There are countless varieties to choose from, allowing you to try your favorite flavors and see if you enjoy cannabis drinks. To get started, be sure to visit your local dispensary. An expert budtender can walk you through the beverages available in your area and answer any questions you might have about a product.